Everyone worries about the state of their dental health, but what about your oral health when you’re not in the dentist’s chair? While brushing your teeth every morning and night is a good habit to practice, there are many ways that your teeth and gums can suffer harm.
When do you need an emergency dental appointment? How do you know when it’s really an emergency and not just a routine check-up? Even brushing and flossing daily won’t save you from some of these issues.
Read on to learn about some of the most common reasons to make an emergency dentist appointment.
Toothache
When you have a serious oral problem, like a toothache, you need to see a dentist right away. Toothaches can signal a serious underlying dental issue, such as:
- abscessed tooth
- gum disease
- broken filling
Further, toothaches can be incredibly painful and make it difficult to eat or sleep. As such, it is essential for those experiencing a toothache to book an emergency dental appointment as soon as possible. During an emergency visit to the dentist, they can check for damage and give pain relief right away.
Dental Trauma
Dental trauma is one of the most common reasons for an emergency dental appointment. This is often caused by physical accidents, such as:
- falling on the ground
- hitting the chin
- biting down hard on something
It can also be caused by oral health problems, such as advanced gum disease or cavities. These make the tooth prone to fracturing when bite or pressure is exerted.
Dental trauma can also include cracked, chipped, or knocked-out teeth. Patients who experience these types of traumas should immediately see an emergency dentist, as they can provide treatment to repair and protect the remaining teeth, as well as provide relief from the pain.
Swelling and Infections
Swelling and infections are common reasons for an emergency dental appointment. Swelling can be a sign of a serious infection and should always be examined by a dentist.
If a patient experiences an infection in a tooth or gum, antibiotics may be prescribed. However, visiting the dentist is essential to ensure the infection does not worsen.
Lost Dental Fillings or Crowns
Lost dental fillings or crowns are often reasons for an emergency dental appointment. Fillings can come loose or fall out due to age, trauma, or grinding. When a filling is lost, it exposes the underlying nerve, putting the patient at risk of extreme pain, infection, and tooth decay.
For uncomplicated fillings, the dentist will simply replace the filling. If the filling is too worn or too large for the cavity, a larger filling or even a crown may be needed.
When a crown is lost, it is important to look for same day crown replacement service and get it replaced as soon as possible to prevent misalignment of the adjacent teeth. Without a crown, the underlying nerve can become inflamed, or infections can occur. The dentist will look over the affected teeth and take any necessary steps to protect their surrounding teeth or perform a root canal if necessary.
Know When to Schedule an Emergency Dentist Appointment
Common reasons for an emergency dentist appointment include severe toothache, swelling, broken or chipped teeth, and knocked-out teeth, and more. It is important to seek help as soon as possible if you experience any of these issues.
Dental emergencies can lead to further oral health issues if not treated promptly. If you are experiencing an urgent dental issue, make an appointment today with your local dentist right away.
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Rockey is a passionate writer and educator with a deep interest in fostering innovative learning experiences. With a background in digital marketing, he is dedicated to exploring the intersection of technology and education. His expertise lies in providing insightful and informative content on various educational topics, ranging from online learning platforms to pedagogical strategies. Through his writing, he aims to inspire educators and learners alike to embrace new approaches and tools that enhance the educational journey.
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